At
Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, becoming Bat Mitzvah or Bar Mitzvah is about a lot more
than chanting verses from our sacred texts. To be sure, we are devoted to teaching
our children the words and music of the Jewish religious tradition. But we are
committed as well to creating a Bar/Bat Mitzvah experience that nurtures the growth
of our children's identity as a whole during this special time of early adolescence.
The
program here is very individualized. During the last couple of months of the process,
I meet with each child individually to assist in the writing of a short speech
(dvar torah) and, more generally, to help in focusing on the significance of what
he or she is experiencing in becoming Bar/Bat Mitzvah. In addition, we meet as
a group to view films about Judaism about which we share reactions.
There
is no doubt that the experience is a challenge. Standing before a large room filled
with so many loved ones, friends and neighbors in attendance, each child is called
upon to demonstrate a significant level of poise and leadership for a thirteen
year old. And they all do!
I
invite you as parents to become involved in the experience. Please do not hesitate
to share with Rabbi David or myself your own insights about your child's progress
as the year moves along. If your knowledge of Hebrew allows, we encourage you
to work with your child as she or he engages the texts of our tradition.
Whatever
your knowledge of Hebrew, there is ample opportunity for you to listen to the
chanting; to share your own thoughts about Jewish identity and your hopes about
your child's identity. I look forward to speaking with you often in the course
of this significant year in the life or your child and your family.
L'shalom,
Rabbi Joshua Chasan
Click
here to Download the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Packet
Click
here to Download the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Music Files
